Short Term Rentals
Why This Matters
Short-term rental (STR) ordinances directly affect how lakefront properties may be used, neighborhood character, enforcement activity, and compliance requirements. Because Higgins Lake spans multiple townships, rules may differ depending on property location, making it important for property owners to stay informed as ordinances are drafted, repealed, or revised.
What’s Happening Now
Gerrish Township
- Gerrish Township passed Draft A.5-1, now titled Short Term Rental Ordinance #50 on February 10, 2026
- Gerrish Township passed Resolution No. 2026-02-10-26-06 to establish the number of available licenses, application and license fees, and to appoint an ordinance enforcement officer.
Lyon Township
- Lyon Township had a Short-Term Rental ordinance in place in 2024.
- Following a change in board leadership, that ordinance was rescinded.
- Lyon Township has since drafted a new Short-Term Rental ordinance, which is under consideration.
How This May Impact Higgins Lake Property Owners
- May be subject to new licensing, registration, fees, and renewal requirements depending on township.
- Draft ordinances commonly address occupancy limits, local contact requirements, septic/well considerations, and enforcement provisions.
- Changes could affect existing rental operations and future rental plans.
- Ordinances typically aim to address noise, parking, density, and neighborhood impacts.
- A formal ordinance can provide clearer standards and enforcement mechanisms.
- Requirements may vary by township, even within the Higgins Lake community.
- Ordinance changes can influence property use, compliance obligations, and long-term planning.
- May be subject to new licensing, registration, fees, and renewal requirements depending on township.
- Draft ordinances commonly address occupancy limits, local contact requirements, septic/well considerations, and enforcement provisions.
- Changes could affect existing rental operations and future rental plans.
- Ordinances typically aim to address noise, parking, density, and neighborhood impacts.
- A formal ordinance can provide clearer standards and enforcement mechanisms.
- Requirements may vary by township, even within the Higgins Lake community.
- Ordinance changes can influence property use, compliance obligations, and long-term planning.